For many, many years now our family has engaged in a lovely tradition.  I don’t think it’s an original concept, and I’m not really sure just where we picked it up.  We call it our Holy Advent-ure…

Here’s how it works (updated from a previous post):

Every year, for the past several years, our family has endeavored to emulate the virtues displayed by the various “characters” of the Nativity of our Lord.  Slips of paper containing the names and virtues of each are folded and placed in a hat.

This year’s selections have a few interesting “twists…”  Dad is a lamb?!  Mom…a shepherd?!  Don’t worry…no change of command taking place here, just the emulation of certain virtues that each of us need to cultivate!  We have a pleasant journey ahead, and much to learn this new Advent Season.

Here are the slips as they were drawn:

The Christmas Star:  Abigail  (my little “star” really wants to shine this Season!)

Virtues: Provide a steady light to guide the weary pilgrims. A source of guidance and illumination.

The Angel: Rylee (oh, is she happy!  She quickly dawned her angel costume!)

Virtues: Proclaims the “tidings of great joy”. A source of inspiration. Obedient to the will of God.

Blessed Virgin: Zachary (we all acknowledge that the one who chooses the “Mary slip” has a tough job ahead!)

Virtues: Meek, humble, modest and pure. Full and complete obedience to God. Holiness.

St. Joseph:  Meredith (yep…my faraway girl…until she has a family of her own, we’ll continue to draw a slip for her!)

Virtues: Humility, leadership and humble trust in God. Chastity and patience

The Shepherd: Mom  (Wow…I really need to work on the listening part…)

Virtues: Leadership. Listens to God. Kindness to the “lambs.” Goodness.

The Lambs (2): Michael and Dad (Dad has been bearing so many burdens lately…perhaps he gets a bit of a break?)

Virtues: Docility, innocence, obedience and trust.

The Ox: Maximilian (hmm…two years in a row, Max…is there a message here?)

Virtues: Hardwork and diligence. Patience and sacrifice.

The Donkey: Joseph (another tough character to emulate…and the slip that fell to me for 4 consecutive years…)

Virtues: Humility and docility. Patiently bears all burdens.

We’re on our way, journeying towards Bethlehem…we hope to meet you there!